07/07/2026
A proud new chapter for Lutheran Shipping Services!
IROK Services congratulates the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea and Lutheran Shipping Services on the arrival of MV Karkar.
As the vessel operator, we are proud to continue our valued partnership and look forward to operating MV Karkar safely, reliably and efficiently, as we have done with MV Ialibu and MV Mamose Express.
Congratulations to ELC-PNG on this significant milestone. We look forward to seeing MV Karkar connecting communities and supporting essential passenger and cargo services across Papua New Guinea.
LSS to Welcome Newly Built MV Karkar on 8 July
Lutheran Shipping Services is set to welcome its newest vessel, MV Karkar, on 8 July 2026, just days before the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea marks ELCPNG Day on 12 July.
The arrival of the new vessel comes during a significant period for ELCPNG, as the Church continues its 50th Anniversary celebrations of autonomy from 1976 to 2026.
In a media release authorised by the Office of the National Secretary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea, LSS said the arrival of MV Karkar marks a significant milestone in the Churchโs commitment to improving shipping services in the region.
The MV Karkar is a newly built 40-metre cargo and passenger catamaran. Like the MV Ialibu, it reflects LSSโs continued investment in modern and reliable shipping services for Papua New Guineaโs coastal communities.
The vessel is expected to dock at Asiawe Wharf, Vocopoint, Lae, where it will be welcomed by ELC-PNG leadership and staff, company representatives, and port officials.
The official commissioning of MV Karkar is scheduled for 18 July 2026.
According to LSS, the vessel has been designed with increased passenger and cargo capacity and is expected to support trade routes, strengthen rural economies, and provide safer and more reliable travel for coastal communities.
As ELCPNG gives thanks for its mission journey, from the beginnings of Lutheran mission in Papua New Guinea to its life as an autonomous national church, the arrival of MV Karkar highlights the Churchโs continuing role in serving people not only through worship and ministry, but also through practical services that support communities.
The maiden voyage from Lae to Vanimo will be announced at a later date.
The vessel is an improved version developed after a thorough evaluation of five years of sailings with the MV Ialibu. It offers improved passenger comfort and reduced environmental impact.
Read the full Press Release:
https://elcpng.org.pg/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Media-Release-Mv-Karkar-ELCPNG.pdf
